Toshiba Group marks its 150th anniversary in July 2025.
Company journey began in 1875, when inventor Hisashige Tanaka established what would later become Tanaka Seizo-sho in Ginza, under a sign that read, “We welcome orders for inventions of all types of machinery.” In 1890, Dr. Ichisuke Fujioka founded Hakunetsu-sha with the belief that “electric light should be the light of the people,” and lit Japan’s first domestically produced incandescent lamp—laying the foundation for Japan’s electric industry. These two pioneering businesses grew and eventually merged in 1939 to form Tokyo Shibaura Electric Co., Ltd., the predecessor of today’s Toshiba Corporation.
Over the past 150 years, Toshiba Group has constantly risen to meet the challenges of each era—leveraging innovations in energy, infrastructure, devices, and digital domains to address pressing societal issues. From streetlights that illuminated Japan’s modernization, to home appliances that changed our daily life, word processors and PCs that transformed the way we work, and flash memory that laid the foundations for today’s data-driven society — Toshiba has remained at the forefront of change, advancing society through technology.
Today, Toshiba continues to confront global-scale challenges such as climate change and aging infrastructure, while pursuing next-generation innovations such as quantum technology and fusion power. At the heart of these efforts lives the spirit of the founders—their restless curiosity and passion.
This 150-year journey has only been made possible thanks to the warm support of all stakeholders. The company extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have accompanied it along the way. To commemorate this historic milestone and express appreciation, Toshiba has created a 150th anniversary logo. It symbolizes company’s legacy and aspirations for the future, and Toshiba’s determination to inspire stronger employee engagement as the company continues this journey together with them.
The circular shape representing the “0” in “150” embodies the Earth, reflecting the corporate philosophy— “Committed to People, Committed to the Future.”— and symbolizes aspirations for a better future—one Toshiba strives toward by addressing global social challenges. The Toshiba Group corporate
colors—Toshiba Red and Toshiba Blue—represent the essence of its identity: Toshiba Red represents the unwavering passion and confidence, while Toshiba Blue represents intelligence and modernity. The anniversary logo features a gradient blend of these two colors, symbolizing accomplishments over the past 150 years and ongoing commitment to shaping a new future through technological excellence.
Guided by the corporate philosophy, Toshiba Group remains committed to creating value and contributing to the enrichment of people’s lives and culture around the world.
Original – Toshiba